"Neural DSP implements long-demanded enhancements" (in the Nano Cortex update)
The latest update, NanOS 2.1.0, for Neural DSP's popular amp modeler, the Nano Cortex, brings a highly-anticipated feature: tap tempo controls.
Previously, the absence of tap tempo was a limitation in the Nano Cortex. However, with this update, players can now control the tempo using the pedal itself or via MIDI CC messages, making it more competitive with other top-tier amp modelers like Kemper and TONEX.
On the pedal, tap tempo mode is activated by holding Footswitch I, whose LED then blinks at the current tempo. Players set the tempo by tapping Footswitch I and exit tap tempo mode by pressing Footswitch II. The LED of Footswitch I flashes blue when an incoming MIDI clock is received.
The Nano Cortex also now supports tap tempo control via MIDI CC messages, enabling external control over tempo.
The update extends tap tempo control to the companion iOS/Android app as well. The tempo menu gains a tap pad, allowing tempo setting by tapping, precise BPM number entry, and the option to select between global or preset-specific tempos. Players can also choose external MIDI clock sources via USB MIDI or TRS MIDI connectivity.
Other improvements in the NanOS 2.1.0 update include incoming MIDI CC messages for bypassing individual device slots, expression pedal control, tuner on/off, an Impulse Response loader bypass for specific outputs, MIDI Thru forwarding, USB playback volume control, input/output muting for better DAW workflows, and keeping reverb/delay trails when bypassing the pedal (in certain modes).
In summary, the update greatly enhances the usability and flexibility of tap tempo control on the Nano Cortex, both on the device and via software/MIDI, alongside several other workflow and performance improvements.
This update follows a significant free firmware update in April that added 47 new effects to the Nano Cortex and improved control over the signal chain. Even John Mayer, a prominent figure in the music industry, was spotted playing a Quad Cortex at Coachella, further highlighting Neural DSP's growing influence in the world of guitar amp modeling.
- The Nano Cortex now allows tap tempo effects using the pedal itself, making it more similar to other top-tier amp modelers like Kemper and TONEX.
- To activate tap tempo mode on the pedal, players should hold Footswitch I, whose LED will blink at the current tempo.
- In addition to the pedal control, the Nano Cortex also supports tap tempo control via MIDI CC messages, enabling players to control the tempo with smart-home devices or other gadgets using technology.
- The update also extends tap tempo control to the companion iOS/Android app, where the tempo menu now includes a tap pad for easy setting of the tempo.
- With the new NanOS 2.1.0 update, Neural DSP continues to enhance the performance and flexibility of the Nano Cortex, as seen in the April firmware update that added 47 new effects and improved signal chain control, and in the growing endorsement from prominent figures like John Mayer.
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